Skunk found near Longmont tests positive for rabies

A skunk that bit a horse Feb. 14, 2014, near Terry Lake, north of Longmont, has tested positive for rabies, according to Boulder County.

"This is the first animal that has been reported as positive for rabies in Boulder County this year, and the third in the state," the county announced in a Monday morning press release. "In 2013, 24 animals tested positive for rabies in Boulder County, including nine skunks."

Rabies is an infectious viral disease that affects the nervous system and is always fatal unless it is treated before any symptoms appear, the release noted.

"While bats are the most common animal source of rabies in Colorado, even more concerning is the increase in "terrestrial" rabies during the last few years," said Lane Drager, Consumer Protection Program coordinator for Boulder County Public Health, said in the release.

The release noted that in the past few years, skunks have been a significant source of rabies throughout eastern Colorado. Raccoons and foxes also might carry rabies.

"Rabies in ground-dwelling animals increases the risk of rabies exposure to pets and livestock," said Drager. "If you know of a person or domestic animal that has or may have had contact with wildlife, or if you see a wildlife that looks sick or is acting unusual, call your local animal control office."

The press release announced that health agencies are urging residents to have their horses vaccinated against the disease and to make sure that their dogs' and cats' rabies vaccinations are up-to-date. "Owners of livestock should discuss rabies vaccination with their veterinarians," the released noted. "Vaccinating dogs, cats, horses, and livestock against rabies is the most important and effective way to protect both animals and humans from contracting rabies.

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"Exposure to rabies is generally the result of a bite or scratch by an infected animal, and it is sometimes practically undetectable, such as a tiny puncture of the skin by a bat. Treatment for rabies exposure involves a series of vaccinations."

Public health officials recommend the following precautions to reduce the risk of exposure to rabies:

•Do not handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly. Contact animal control to collect the animal.

•Thoroughly wash any wound caused by an animal with soap and water, and seek medical attention immediately.

•Keep vaccinations current for all dogs, cats and ferrets.

•Maintain control of pets by keeping cats and ferrets indoors and keeping dogs under direct supervision.

•Teach children to leave wildlife alone.

•Do not leave pet food or livestock feed in areas that are accessible to wildlife.

•If a person or pet has been bitten by or has had contact with a bat or wild animal, seek medical care immediately, and then contact your local animal control agency or Boulder County Public Health to arrange for rabies testing.

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